Date and Time

Location

Description

CURLS + THE JOURNEY

Throughout each of our natural hair journeys we have all experienced the highs and the lows. Some of us transitioned from relaxed to natural cutting off our straight strands little by little and some of us did the 'big chop.' Whatever the journey to rediscovering our natural curls, one thing we all have in common is our own unique paths, the stories that come along with it and the renewed self-discovery. Through our various experiences and interactions along our journey comes the emotional and social aspect and finding within us what those experiences really mean. We may ask ourselves - Did I make the right decision? Should I just go back to relaxed? What will by friends and family think of my natural hair? I just can't figure out what to do with it? What do I do next? Will I be able to fully embrace this new path? Join us for a panel discussion and Q+A moderated by CurlTalks founder, Brittany Dixon as we dig a little deeper and explore Curls + The Journey.

We'll hear from this AMAZING panel of ladies as they join us for a chat to discuss how through their personal experiences, perspectives and backgrounds they have been able to stay the course along their individual journeys. Come connect, meet new curl friends, get inspired and join in on the conversation!

This a FREE event but you must RSVP for entry. There will be light refreshments + give away! Space is limited.

THE LOCATION

Parking: There are paid parking lots located on either side of CTRL Collective (817 S. Spring + 843 S. Spring). Please note that validation and hosted parking are NOT AVAILABLE at this time. Parking averages around $10/car. Carpooling is suggested.

Arrive early and read street parking signs for a chance to obtain street parking (free after 4 PM on weekdays).

Entry: Upon arrival, you will be buzzed in and will immediately check-in on the lobby level. Ctrl Collective is location on the 4th floor. There is both elevator and stair access. CurlTalks will be taking place on the upper level of Ctrl Collective (pictured above)

THE TIMELINE

6:30pm - 7:30pm - Arrival window, check-in, mingle

7:30pm - 8:30pm - Panel discussion begins

8:30pm - 9:00pm - Curly Q+A

ABOUT OUR PANELISTS

TARYANA GILBEAU | Founder of Tees by T.

Taryana Gilbeau is a Los Angeles native who "technically" has always been natural but has straightened her hair since she was 5-years-old which had fried her curls straight. After graduating college, Taryana wanted a fresh start in life after experiencing self-doubt and confusion about what life after college would look like and the big chop was her first step. After contemplating the big chop for less than 24 hours, she walked down the street until she found a barber who was free to cut her hair and her natural journey began. Taryana founded Tees by T, a clothing line inspired by her love of travel and her signature afro. After traveling throughout Asia she saw how her curls activated dialogue with locals and wanted to promote more cross-culture communication throughout the world. She hopes to inspire more people to travel and eventually use Tees by T to sponsor kids from low-income areas to travel the world. Taryana is passionate about community outreach and loves to dance with her team, Roxstarz dance crew.

RACHAEL JOSEPH | Registered Dietitian + Lifestyle Blogger

Rachael Joseph co-authors on the blog "La Rachelle" and is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist from Toronto, Canada. She enjoys writing, attending food festivals, and anything that has to do with “Bob’s Burgers." Her natural hair journey never followed a straight path, but the experience was a means to an end revealing self-love, confidence, and creativity in the process. Navigating spaces while wearing natural hair is one of the defining moments of her journey. Rachael hopes that by sharing her story and experience, she encourages more naturals to learn to love their hair.

LASHON RENEE | Blogger-at-Large

LaShon Renee transitioned from relaxed to natural hair in 2009 and has never looked back! Her blog, For the Love of Curls, showcases how she and other naturals celebrate life from a curly girl's perspective. When she's not blogging she's a full-time entrepreneur who enjoys a good meal, travel, seeking new adventures, and any reality tv show about food or fashion.

KISSA STARR | Founder of Buttafly Unlimited + Kissa Starr Social Club

Growing up in New York City, Kissa Starr developed a passion for fashion and individuality at a young age and always knew she would one day make a living pursuing her love as her own boss. Her dream manifested when she launched her company Buttafly Unlimited in 2000, a collection of inspiring tees and accessories. Buttafly Unlimited's most recognized statement tee "I Love My Hair" , which was inspired by her experience with her grandmother when she did the big chop at 20 years old, has been seen on celebrities like Alicia Keys, sold in boutiques and museum gift shops in New York, London, Atlanta, Brazil and Japan; and collaborated with natural hair care brands such as Carol's Daughter and Eden BodyWorks.

FAQs

Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?

There is no ID required to enter in our CurlTalks Panel.

What are my transport/parking options getting to the event?

PARKING: There are paid parking lots located on either side of CTRL Collective (817 S. Spring + 843 S. Spring). Please note that validation and hosted parking are NOT AVAILABLE at this time.

Arrive early and read street parking signs for a chance to obtain street parking (free after 4 PM on weekdays).

There will be signage to assist!

Where can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Need to get in touch? No problem. You can email hello@curltalks.com with any questions.